. >> we haven't gotten a bowl game since new mexico we love it. we had a great year. >> reporter: this year's graduates watched the team go from 1-12 to seasons ago to this season's success then saw their head coach take a job with colorado before today's bowl game. >> i'm so proud of them and how far they've come. they believe in themselves first and now they've turned everybody into believers. >> reporter: and there were more believes as the game went on. >> wide open, inside the 10. >> i think san jose state is the sleeping giant in terms of the sports program here. we're starting to show some good things. >> it came down to the last few minutes but as it has almost all year. san jose state came out the winner. >> the game was amazing. heart wrenching, nerve wracking. >> i'm just thrilled to be a spartan to still be going to san jose state. i think we're coming together. >> before too many people get carried away, san jose state has challenges ahead. a new coach, a new conference but at least now it goes forward as bowl champions. in san jose,